2008 BMW X3 vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 6,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 577 kg more than 2008 BMW X3.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW X3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 GMC Suburban will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1981 GMC Suburban (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1981 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | BMW | GMC |
| Model | X3 | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 6210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 2395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3300 mm |
